For the past two decades, Melanie Watnick has been collaborating with artists to create costumes that vibrantly engage audiences and performers alike. As a designer, she upholds the belief that costumes are an extension of the body, that move and breathe with the actor giving life to the story unfolding on stage. This visual artform, which utilizes both the tactile world of fabric and the ephemeral of our collective imagination and experiences continues to intrigue and excite her. Her designs have been seen both nationally and internationally in theatre and dance productions from Norwegian Cruise Lines to Edinburgh Festivals to TEDx performances. Chameleon like in her design, she adapts and responds to the work being created at the moment vs specific or redundant aesthetic or style. 

 

Ms Watnick resides in Los Angeles where she will be continuing on in her 9th year as the costume design professor in the theatre program at Pepperdine University.  She has previously held positions at UC Irvine's Department of Dance and UC San Diego’s Department of Theatre and Dance.